Fort Patrick Henry Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fort Patrick Henry Dam, located in Kingsport, Tennessee, is a key structure managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority for flood risk reduction along the South Fork Holston River.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this concrete gravity dam stands at 90 feet tall and spans 625 feet in length, with a hydraulic height of 83 feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, but it also serves for hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply, showcasing its multi-functional importance in the region.

With a storage capacity of 31,728 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 164,000 cubic feet per second, Fort Patrick Henry Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam's controlled spillway, Tainter radial outlet gates, and high hazard potential highlight the engineering complexity and risk management measures in place. Although the condition assessment is not available, the dam's risk assessment indicates a very high risk level, warranting regular inspections and emergency action planning to ensure public safety and water security for the surrounding community.

The dam's association with the Tennessee Valley Authority underscores its federal ownership and oversight, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between government agencies in water resource management. Fort Patrick Henry Dam not only stands as a symbol of engineering excellence but also serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between water infrastructure, climate resilience, and the protection of natural resources in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

625

Dam Height

90

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK HOLSTON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

840

Hydraulic Height

83

Drainage Area

1903

Nid Storage

31728

Structural Height

95

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

95
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.